Fast bowlers are known to “hunt in pairs,” but Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have given the adage a new meaning by constantly bothering the opposition in multiple ways.
In the current first Test match against Bangladesh, the Tango and Cash of modern Indian cricket accomplished a remarkable feat when they combined 199 runs for the seventh wicket, taking India from a precarious 144 for six wickets to 376 all out.
Even for the Ashwin-Jadeja combination, who had previously registered three 50-plus stands in unison to steady the Indian ship, it was a new high.
Ashwin showed off how much he admired Jadeja. “I’m always envious of him. So talented, so gifted. He’s figured out how to reach his full potential. During Friday’s post-day press conference here, Ashwin told reporters, “I wish I could be him, but I’m glad I am myself.”
The Chennai player acknowledged that his sixth Test century was made possible by having Jadeja at the other end.
“He’s a really talented cricket player. I’m glad for him. In many respects, too, I believe that watching him bat over the past few years has helped me become a better player,” he continued.
However, Ashwin follows a completely different mindset when bowling, confusing hitters with an unending repertoire of techniques.
Jadeja is more grounded in reality; he keeps things tight and leverages minute variations in length and line to generate rewards.
However, they have managed to work well together for the good of the team, and in January of last year, they surpassed the record held by Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh (501 wickets) to become India’s most productive bowling combo.
“He keeps things really basic. He is able to bowl every day without any difficulty. Thus, we have developed together as a pair. We’ve each accomplished a few unique things.
“At this point, we really value each other, and we’re both enjoying each other’s success more than ever,” Ashwin said.
Still, the work is not done. To win the match, they will now need to bowl together again in Bangladesh’s fourth innings.
Ashwin, who was unable to take a wicket during Bangladesh’s first innings, which concluded at 149, has already mapped out the visitors’ demise in his head.
“I believe there is a little bit more bounce up and down. In my opinion, the carry remains. It’s most likely gotten a little faster today before slowing down once more. If this game continues until the fourth or fifth day, which I firmly believe it will, it will turn for the better.
“But the challenge going ahead in this pitch would be to negotiate spin, as the surface in due course will be able to do its tricks on the batters,” he said.
